South • Raleigh, NC This drink started as a gin martini; then partner John Lambrakis consulted pastry chef Eric Akbari, who suggested adding melon granita to make it more refreshing. The result, according to Lambrakis, was a cocktail that says "summer." Plus: Ultimate Cocktail Guide
How to Make It
Step
In a cocktail shaker, muddle 1 of the cucumber wheels with the mint and Simple Syrup. Add ice and the gin, Honeydew Granita and lemon juice and shake well. Strain into a chilled martini glass and float the remaining cucumber wheel on the surface of the drink.